Washington, DC—The DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCCADV) applauds Mayor Vincent Gray for signing an Executive Order today that provides several important protections for immigrant residents of the District of Columbia, including victims of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a pervasive, life-threatening epidemic that will continue to affect our communities at staggering rates unless victims feel comfortable calling upon the police for help. Mayor Gray remarked today that this executive order will promote a more trusting relationship between immigrant communities and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Victims of domestic violence who may be undocumented are often hesitant to call police for fear of being arrested or detained for an immigration violation when they are simply seeking life-saving help. In addition, these victims are often faced with greater challenges because though they seek an end of their abuse, they don’t necessarily want their abuser detained and deported – which often will remove the primary income earner in households. Today the Mayor has recognized and addressed these issues, breaking down some of the barriers that prevent immigrant victims from seeking help and safety.

“Immigration status should not prevent anyone from seeking police protection, and a victim should not be murdered by her abuser because she fears civil immigration consequences if she calls the police,” said Karma Cottman, Executive Director of DCCADV. “This policy rightly acknowledges these barriers and seeks to eradicate them.”

Domestic violence is a serious epidemic in the District, and even though DC has been experiencing record breaking drops in crime rates, domestic violence homicides have increased and already surpassed the number from 2010. Limited English proficiency and unfamiliarity with the laws in the United States and DC already silence so many victims wanting to reach out for help. This policy is a critical step towards ending domestic violence in this community and holding offenders accountable.

“The Mayor has reaffirmed today that DC really is “One City” and we celebrate the diversity of our city and seek to protect the rights of all,” said Cottman. “The District continues to be at the forefront nationwide of progressive polices that truly protect and empower victims and survivors of domestic violence, and now we all have to do our part to spread the word about these important changes so that everyone knows they don’t have to live in fear of calling the police for help if they need it.”

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The DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence, a 501(c)(3) organization works to enhance domestic violence domestic violence services in the District of Columbia. Founded in 1986, DCCADV is a membership organization comprised of 12 primary purpose domestic violence agencies in the District. DCCADV is the District's leader on policy and advocacy work, serving as the voice of survivors of domestic violence. The Coalition is a resource for the thousands of adults and children experiencing domestic violence in the District each year. To learn more, please visit www.dccadv.org.

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